Solve for Orthogonal Vectors b and c: Dot Product and Scalar Values Explained

[krugertown]

By evaluating their dot product, find the values of the scalar s for which the two vectors
b=\hat{x}+s\hat{y} and c=\hat{x}-s\hat{y}
are orthogonal.


I understand that for the two vecotrs to be perpindicular their dot product must be 0. however I am confused how to go about this problem as there are unit vectors.

Any ideas are appreciated. thanks!

 

[lanedance]

gday krugertown

take the dot product & show me what you get...

the unit vectors are generally orthonormal - meaning orthogonal & unit magnitude, this should help...

 

[krugertown]

so something like \hat{x}-s^{2}\hat{y}?

 

[lanedance]

the results of a dot product should be a scalar not a vector quantity

try writing out the whole dot product